College Transition Program

What is the College Transition Program?

The College Transition Program (CTP) is a year-long program for incoming College of Arts and Sciences students who meet selected criteria. Extra assistance and support is given to these students throughout their first year to assist them in successfully transitioning to college level coursework. The goal of the program is to give students who may struggle with the adjustment to college the extra assistance and resources they need to succeed at Ohio Northern University and graduate with a degree.

By meeting individually with students, recommending specialized courses, monitoring academic progress, and providing access to the variety of services offered throughout the University, the CTP partners with students as they work to become academically successful at Ohio Northern University.

When students have questions, concerns or problems, the CTP should be their first step towards getting answers.

What happens throughout the year?

Prior to Classes Starting

The CTP Coordinator places students in specialized classes designed to assist with academic success in college and in appropriate major and general education courses.

The CTP Coordinator contacts students for an initial meeting to occur during the first 3 weeks of the term.

During the Academic Year

At the first meeting, the Coordinator…

Reviews the purpose of the CTP

Reviews the student’s schedule

Introduces University resources

Discusses tips for student success

Reviews use of an academic planner

Addresses any questions or concerns the student may have

Schedules follow-up meetings

At the bi-weekly meetings throughout the year, the Coordinator and student…

Review the student’s academic progress and success, as reported by the student and the student’s professors

Address any academic concerns

Discuss helpful campus services and study skills techniques

During registration periods, CTP students receive guidance with course selection.

Each CTP student should enroll as a full time student with a complete course load.

Each CTP student has an academic adviser in his or her major department who will assist with course selection.

The CTP Coordinator reviews student schedules and addresses any concerns.

Special Programs, Resources, and Courses for CTP Students

The professional counselors of the Communication Skills Center aid students in both oral and written skills by working with them one-on-one.

Free tutoring is provided for select courses through the College of Arts and Sciences.

An Introduction to College Writing course (AASG 0991) is required for students with an English ACT score of 16 or below (SAT verbal score below 410).

An Introduction to College Reading course (AASG 0971) is required for students enrolled in AASG 0991 and for students with a Reading ACT score of 18 or below.

A Study Skills course (AASG 0961) is required of all students admitted into the College Transition Program.

Whom to Contact for More Information?

Melissa Verb is the College Transition Program Coordinator. She joined the Ohio Northern University Community in 2002 as an Academic Counselor and has served as Coordinator of the CTP since 2004. She holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Albion College in Michigan and a Master of Science Degree from Ohio University. She thoroughly enjoys watching students who have completed the College Transition Program walk across the stage at commencement, having earned their college degree. Melissa can be reached at m-verb@onu.edu.